James Harden has publicly expressed his desire to see LeBron James return to the Cleveland Cavaliers for what could be the final season of his legendary NBA career.Harden, who joined Cleveland in a blockbuster trade during the 2025-26 season, described a potential homecoming as the perfect conclusion to James’ journey.”I hope he comes to Cleveland,” Harden said talking to the media at Fanatics Fest. “It’s a perfect storybook finish. He’s at home for his last year.”
James has not officially confirmed that the 2026-27 campaign will be his final NBA season. However, the 41-year-old has acknowledged that he is entering the closing stages of his career as he prepares for a record-breaking 24th season.
Despite openly recruiting LeBron, Harden acknowledged that the four-time NBA champion is unlikely to be influenced by public pitches from players or teams.
“He’s gonna decide,” Harden said. “He’s smart enough that I don’t think anybody’s pitch is gonna move him. You know what I mean?”
James became an unrestricted free agent after ending his eight-year run with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Cleveland, Miami, and Philadelphia have reportedly emerged among the leading contenders for his signature, while Golden State has also remained connected to the veteran forward.
Harden believes James will immediately improve whichever team he ultimately chooses.
“Wherever he decides, obviously, the team’s gonna be a lot better,” he said.
A move to Cleveland would mark James’ third stint with his hometown franchise.
The Akron native began his NBA career with the Cavaliers after being selected with the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. He left for the Miami Heat in 2010 before returning to Cleveland four years later.
James then delivered the franchise’s first NBA championship in 2016, leading the Cavaliers back from a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals.
He departed for the Lakers in 2018 and later won his fourth championship in 2020.
Cleveland now has an experienced roster led by Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, and Harden. The Cavaliers acquired Harden from the Los Angeles Clippers in February in exchange for Darius Garland and a draft pick.
Harden subsequently declined his player option for the 2026-27 season but is reportedly working toward a new multi-year agreement with Cleveland.